A Note From Newsie's Director, Holly Hill:

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I'll admit it, I was hesitant to do Newsies. With a school full of talented 12th grade boys, it was often suggested to me. But Newsies is one of the most commonly produced musicals in Utah Valley and with that comes big expectations. I didn't want to attempt filling those expectations, especially in my first year full-time teaching. To put it bluntly, I was terrified of this show. Then, my choreographer and oldest friend, Natalie Shields, asked me to simply consider how we might pull it off. No strings, just think about it. Two hours later we were giddy with excitement at the prospect of doing Newsies. 

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Many of my fears were put to rest at the first rehearsal. We listened to the Broadway soundtrack of the show together and the students were singing at the top of lungs and dancing together. A tap battle even broke out. The enthusiasm that the students displayed was remarkable. From then on the students worked hard at every rehearsal to bring the story that they were inspired by to life. They have embraced the message of Newsies, that we are stronger together, truly embodying the saying "we are only as strong as the weakest link."

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I could not be more pleased with how this production has turned out. The students have consistently gone above and beyond my expectations. They have been flexible with every twist and turn that we have thrown at them from casting changes to small rehearsal spaces. It has truly been a joy to work with each one of them. 

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A big shoutout is also due to Natalie Shields, our amazing choreographer. When dance is as vital to a musical as it is to Newsies, it is important that the director and choreographer get along well and share a vision for the show. I met Natalie when I was 11 and she was 13 while doing a show at Hale Center Theatre Orem. We were instant best friends. Nearly 14 years later, we are still at it, but this time instead of actors, we are director and choreographer. Natalie has been a joy to work with. I adore every piece of choreography she has created! She has also been my emotional support human through the production process. And she has done it all while being pregnant! 

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I hope that each audience member will have as fun a time watching the show as I have had directing it. Please enjoy the message of friendship and integrity that has pierced the hearts of so many.